COVER STORY

New Delhi: The Indian Navy’s Sail Training Ship, INS Sudarshini, concluded a productive and engaging port call at Casablanca, Morocco, on 18 Apr 2026.  The visit marked an important step in strengthening the Indo-Morocco maritime partnership, as part of the ongoing Lokayan 26 deployment.

During the port call, the Commanding Officer of INS Sudarshini held professional interactions with senior Moroccan naval leaders, focusing on training exchanges and maritime cooperation. The essence of ‘Lokayan’ was reflected through active training engagements, with Indian Navy trainees interacting with cadets of the Royal Moroccan Naval School during cross deck visits and friendly sports fixtures. Diplomatic outreach was enhanced through an onboard reception hosted by INS Sudarshini and a reciprocal luncheon hosted by the Royal Moroccan Navy, strengthening professional and cultural ties.

The current visit reaffirms deepening maritime ties between the two countries, driven by shared maritime interests and strategic convergence. INS Sudarshini now proceeds to Las Palmas, Spain, furthering the message of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and goodwill across the seas.

New Delhi: INS Sudarshini Leaves Sète Escale 2026 on 07 Apr 2026, marking successful culmination of her participation in the renowned Escale à Sète. This biennial festival is amongst the largest maritime gatherings in the Mediterranean, celebrating global seafaring heritage. During the event, INS Sudarshini actively engaged in a range of maritime activities alongside international tall ships. The ship’s crew participated in cultural exchanges, maritime workshops, and sporting events integral to the festival program.

A major highlight was the participation of the Indian Naval marching contingent in the Heritage City Parade, commemorating 400th anniversary of the French Navy. Marching through the historic streets of Sète, while proudly displaying the Indian tricolour, the contingent delivered a flawless display of discipline, unity, and ceremonial excellence.

Adding to the accolades, the Sudarshini rowing team secured a bronze medal at the Jeux Maritimes. The festival concluded with the spectacular Grande Parade de Départ, a ceremonial sail past, during which the ship unfurled her sails, creating a captivating visual display.

During her port stay, the ship was open to visitors and welcomed thousands, offering insights into her role and capabilities. The enthusiastic turnout reflected strong cultural engagement and deepening maritime bonds between India and France. A joint yoga session was also conducted with the crew of FS Étoile and ITS Corsaro, symbolizing a shared commitment to health, harmony, and overall well-being.

An official reception was hosted onboard by Shri Sanjeev Singla, Ambassador of India to France, attended by international dignitaries and representatives from participating nations. In his address, he emphasized the strong legacy and growing maritime cooperation between the two navies.

Following her departure, INS Sudarshini is now en route to Casablanca, continuing her mission of strengthening maritime ties under Lokayan 26.